A Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 running the latest Android Nougat (version 7.1.1) has been spotted on the GFXBench benchmarking website. This indicates ongoing testing for the update and it also suggests that Xiaomi is almost ready with Nougat-based optimised MIUI version 9.0. Given that Xiaomi stated it would develop the MIUI 9 based on Android 7.0 Nougat firmware, speculations regarding the release date for Xiaomi MIUI 9 now point at the later half of 2017.

Redmi Note 3 Spotted on GFXBench. According to GSM Arena, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 running the latest Android version 7.1.1 Nougat was spotted on the benchmarking website. Check out the screenshot here.

However, BGR cautions that the information be taken with a grain of salt. They point out that the screenshot reveals phone specifications that are different than what is available for the device, such as a 5.7-inch display. Redmi Note 3 is known for a 5.5-inch display size. Without official confirmation, one can only guess.

If all goes smoothly, with little to no bugs left to deal with, users can expect the Nougat update to roll out very soon. GSM Arena also points out that this screenshot has come out a little over a month since the global variant and other eligible models of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 started receiving the Marshmallow update.

Release Date In Second Half Of 2017. The release date for the Xiaomi MIUI 9 is also a hot topic right now, but there has yet to be an official statement from the Chinese company. Xiaomi Advices, however, suggest that the second half of 2017 works as a plausible release date. They point out that an earlier release may not be in the cards since Xiaomi has yet to release MIUI 8 updates for the Mi and Redmi smartphones.

When the MIUI 9 is released, eligible Xiaomi phones for the update include the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3, the Xiaomi Mi5, Xiaomi Mi Note 2, and the Xiaomi Mi Mix.